A fireman suffered a broken arm and another was hit over the head with a fence post by a gang of up to 15 thugs, it emerged today.

The firefighters were attacked when they went to tackle a blaze at a derelict property in Stockton on Tees, Cleveland, on Monday night.

The gang had been trying to steal life saving equipment from the fire engines when the incident turned nasty and they turned on the firefighters.

Watch manager Alex Race is still nursing severe bruising to his neck after being hit over the head with a wooden post as he tried to fight off the mob.

He said it turned nasty when a crew member tried to stop youths stealing first aid equipment from the appliances.

The firefighter chased the thieves, but was set upon by up to 15 youths.

“They were punching and kicking him, and basically giving him a pasting,” Mr Race told the Northern Echo.

“We ran to assist him and just tried to drag them off. I got smacked in the back of the head with a fence post, but, fortunately, I had my helmet on at the time.”

Cleveland Fire Brigade’s chief officer, John Doyle, said he was appalled by the behaviour of the mob who attacked members of Stockton’s Blue Watch.

“Our crews are trying to protect the community and keep them safe yet they are coming under attack from mindless youths whilst trying to carry out their duties,” he said.

“These same senseless individuals would expect my firefighters to put their lives at risk to rescue members of their families in an emergency situation and yet have total disregard and no respect for the role that my staff carry out.” Mr Doyle said attacks, which are becoming more frequent, would not be tolerated and those who carry them out were brought to justice. “Unfortunately attacks on fire service staff are becoming more regular and this not only has an impact on those attacked but it also affects the front line service we provide,” he said. “Injured firefighters or damage to our equipment can prevent us from delivering our service and can put lives and property at risk.” Two men, both 20, have been charged with violent disorder, theft from a motor vehicle and assault. One will also be charged with breaching an anti-social behaviour order. Two girls, aged 13 and 14, have been released on police bail pending further inquiries.